September 4 National Days

September 4 is the 247th day of the year (248th in leap years), with 118 days remaining until the end of the year.

National Days on September 4th — September 4 National Days

The date highlights themes of health, history, culture, innovation, and conservation. From promoting sexual health and wildlife protection to celebrating the inclusion of Taekwondo in the Olympics, this day reflects global awareness and progress. It also honors historic milestones like the first newspaper carrier and Thomas Edison’s pioneering cogeneration plant, while inviting lighter observances such as indulging in extra dessert, enjoying macadamia nuts, or blending spices.

Here’s a look at the 9 national and international days celebrated on September 4.

National and International Days on September 4

Bey Day celebrates the birthday of singer Beyoncé, born September 4, 1981, and coincides with the release of her second album B’Day in 2006. The album title played on the word “birthday,” cementing the connection. Fans now use “Bey Day” each year to honor her influence on music, culture, and activism.

Bey Day

International Taekwondo Day marks September 4, 1994, when the International Olympic Committee officially recognized Taekwondo as an Olympic sport. Rooted in Korean martial traditions, Taekwondo emphasizes discipline, respect, and physical and mental strength. The day promotes the practice worldwide, celebrating its growth from a national martial art to a globally recognized Olympic discipline.

National Eat an Extra Dessert Day is a playful observance that encourages indulging in a second helping of sweets or trying a new dessert. While its origins are unclear, the day provides a lighthearted reminder to enjoy life’s small pleasures and savor a treat without guilt.

National Macadamia Nut Day highlights a nut native to Australia, with origins stretching back 60 million years. Botanist Ferdinand von Mueller named the nut after chemist John Macadam in 1857. Brought to Hawaii later that century, macadamias became a successful commercial crop. Today, they are prized worldwide for their flavor, buttery texture, and nutritional qualities.

National Newspaper Carrier Day honors Barney Flaherty, who on September 4, 1833, became the first known newspaper carrier in the United States when hired by The Sun in New York City. At just 10 years old, Flaherty began a tradition of “paperboys” and “papergirls” delivering the news to households. The day recognizes both this historical milestone and the dedication of carriers who continue the work of bringing news to communities.

National Spice Blend Day, founded in 2021 by Angel Gregorio of The SpiceSuite, celebrates the cultural and culinary power of spice mixtures. For centuries, spice blends have transformed food, reflecting trade routes, local resources, and cultural tastes. The day encourages experimenting with unique combinations and appreciating how blends like garam masala, za’atar, or herbes de Provence define cuisines around the world.

National Wildlife Day, established in 2005 by Colleen Paige, promotes conservation and honors endangered species. Initially created in memory of Steve Irwin, the day encourages action to protect wildlife from threats like poaching and habitat loss. It is observed twice each year—on September 4 and February 22, Irwin’s birthday—to inspire awareness, education, and conservation efforts worldwide.

World Cogeneration Day commemorates the opening of Thomas Edison’s Pearl Street Station in New York City on September 4, 1882, the first power plant to use cogeneration. Cogeneration, or combined heat and power (CHP), generates both electricity and useful thermal energy from the same source, dramatically improving efficiency. The day raises awareness of this sustainable energy model and honors professionals in the CHP industry.

World Sexual Health Day (WSHD) was founded in 2010 by the World Association for Sexual Health to promote sexual health as a human right. Its inaugural theme, “Let’s Talk About It!,” highlighted the need to break taboos around sexuality. Observed annually on September 4, the day continues to foster global dialogue on sexual rights, justice, and well-being, encouraging open communication and education across cultures.